Choosing the Right Bicycle Helmet with Lights for Safety and Visibility

Cycling at dusk or after dark is an integral part of life in the Netherlands. Whether you're commuting to work, running evening errands, or enjoying a leisurely ride, good visibility is essential. A standard bike light is good, but a bicycle helmet with lights places the light higher, making you more noticeable to other road users.

This article is designed to help you make an informed choice. We'll cover the key considerations and highlight several popular models to help you find a helmet that suits your needs and preferences.

Buyer's Guide: What to Look for in a Helmet with Lights

Before making a choice, it's helpful to consider a few specifications. This will help you find a helmet that is not only visible but also comfortable and practical.

1. Fit and Comfort

A helmet only works if it fits properly and you actually wear it. A safe bicycle helmet for adults should be snug enough without being tight. Pay attention to the following points:

• Sizing: Measure the circumference of your head (about 2 cm above your eyebrows) and compare it with the manufacturer's size chart. Most helmets are available in different sizes (S, M, L).
• Adjustment System: A dial on the back is almost standard and makes it easy to fine-tune the helmet's fit.
• Ventilation: Good ventilation is crucial, especially on longer rides or warmer days. Look at the number and placement of the vents.

2. Type of Lighting and Battery

The lighting is the core feature of these helmets. The technology behind it can vary.

• LED Lighting: Virtually all modern helmets use bicycle helmet with LED technology. It's energy-efficient and durable. Some models only have a bicycle helmet with a rear light, while others also offer front-facing illumination.
• Light Modes: You can usually choose between a steady and a flashing mode. A flashing light often attracts more attention in busy urban traffic.
• Battery: A rechargeable bicycle helmet is the most practical option. You can easily charge it via a USB cable. Check the battery life specified by the manufacturer, so you don't unexpectedly run out of light.

3. Suitability for Your Type of Bike

Not all helmets are the same. A helmet for a road cyclist has different features than one for urban use.

• City Bike Helmet: For daily use in the city, a comfortable, robust helmet with a highly visible rear light is often sufficient.
• E-bike Helmet with Lights: Since you often travel faster on an e-bike, some users have higher standards. A helmet with NTA 8776 certification is specifically designed for speed pedelecs, but a sturdier model with enhanced visibility can also be a wise choice for regular e-bikes. Extras like a visor can also be beneficial against wind and insects.

Recommended Products Worth Considering

Based on product specifications and features, we've lined up some interesting options for you.

DKONI HS-086 Bicycle Helmet with Light

Why It Stands Out The DKONI HS-086 is a no-nonsense helmet that focuses on the essentials: protection and visibility. Its design is lightweight and functional, ideal for the daily cyclist.

Highlights

• In-mould construction: The PC shell is fused with the EPS foam, resulting in a lightweight yet sturdy helmet.
• Rechargeable Rear Light: The LED rear light is detachable and rechargeable via USB. According to the manufacturer, it provides approximately 3-5 hours of light and has 2 light modes.
• Good Ventilation: With 15 vents, the helmet ensures ample air circulation while cycling.

Who Is It For? This helmet is an excellent choice for commuters and urban cyclists looking for a reliable and straightforward city bike helmet. The grey-pink colour scheme also makes it a popular women's bicycle helmet.

OutdoorMaster Cycling Helmet RhinoUrban with Goggles & Light

Why It Stands Out The OutdoorMaster RhinoUrban goes a step further by combining a helmet with magnetic goggles and a sun visor. This makes it exceptionally versatile for various weather conditions.

Highlights

• Safety Certification: The helmet is CPSC and ASTM certified, indicating compliance with safety standards for bicycle helmets.
• Modular Extras: The magnetically detachable goggles protect your eyes from wind, rain, and UV radiation. The sun visor is also removable.
• Type-C Rechargeable Light: The rear light is modern and easy to charge via a Type-C cable, featuring multiple light modes.
• Excellent Ventilation: With 17 vents, this helmet is designed for maximum comfort, even on longer rides.

Who Is It For? This is an ideal e-bike helmet with lights for the discerning cyclist. The added protection from the goggles and visor is a welcome feature at higher speeds and in changeable weather.

For the Kids: BELEEV Kids' Scooter with Lights

Why It Stands Out Safety and visibility are important for children too. While this isn't a helmet, this BELEEV kids' scooter contributes to visibility in a playful way. The wheels light up while riding without needing any batteries.

Highlights

• LED Wheels and Deck: The wheels self-generate light through motion, and the deck features battery-powered LEDs with 8 light modes.
• Grows-With-You Design: The handlebar is adjustable to three heights, making the scooter suitable for children from 3 to 12 years old.
• Safe and Foldable: The wide, non-slip deck and rear brake ensure a safe ride. The scooter is easy to fold after use.

Who Is It For? For parents who want their children to play outdoors in a fun and visible way. It's a great addition to the family's safety gear.

Haven't Found What You're Looking For?

A good helmet is a personal choice. If the options above don't quite match what you're looking for, or if you're curious about other practical products, take a look at our broader assortment.

Discover more practical and innovative products here

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a bicycle helmet with lights mandatory in the Netherlands? No, currently a bicycle helmet (with or without lights) is not mandatory for a regular bicycle or e-bike (up to 25 km/h). For speed pedelecs (up to 45 km/h), an approved helmet is required. Nevertheless, a helmet is strongly recommended to increase visibility and safety.

2. How do I know what size bicycle helmet I need? Measure the circumference of your head at its widest point, about 2 centimetres above your eyebrows and ears. Compare this measurement with the size chart for the helmet you are considering. A well-fitting helmet can then be precisely adjusted using the dial system at the back.

3. Can I use the helmet's light during the day? Absolutely. Many helmets with lights have a flashing mode specifically intended for daytime use. This is also known as a 'daytime running light' and significantly increases your visibility to oncoming traffic, even in bright sunlight.

Written by the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer